Many people believe that giving milk to puppies is a good way to support their healthy development. They often offer some milk to newborn puppies with the best intentions. However, what they don’t realize is that puppies should not drink cow’s milk, and most of them will experience diarrhea after consuming it. In severe cases, they may even develop gastrointestinal mucositis. The reason behind this lies in the differences between canine milk and cow’s milk. Canine milk is high in protein and fat but low in lactose, while cow’s milk has the opposite composition—low in protein and fat, but high in lactose. This mismatch can be problematic for puppies.
Puppies have limited amounts of lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose. When they consume cow’s milk, which contains more lactose than they can handle, it leads to digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. These symptoms are especially common in the first few weeks of life. However, as dogs grow older, typically around 6 months of age, their bodies begin to produce more lactase, allowing them to tolerate milk better. That said, it's still not recommended to feed cow’s milk to adult dogs on a regular basis, as it can cause similar problems if consumed in large quantities.
Instead of cow’s milk, it's best to use specially formulated puppy milk replacers, which are designed to meet the nutritional needs of young dogs. If you're unsure about what to feed your puppy, always consult with a veterinarian to ensure you’re providing the safest and most nutritious options. Taking these precautions can help avoid unnecessary health complications and promote a strong, healthy start for your furry friend.
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